Polished Stones

Almost any type of lapidary rock can be polished. Polishing a stone requires that the stone be ground down using progressively finer grades of sandpaper or grit. This grinding is usually done with a fixed wheel grinder with sanding belts attached to a rotating wheel. There is usually a water source added so that the cutter does not breath in the dust. Once the stone is very smooth there are several types of polish and buffs that are used on different materials to give it a glossy finish. The buffs are also mounted on a rotating wheel. Some stones, such as common with Turquoise, must be "stabilized" or treated with a resin before they can be cut. Some stones, such as Rhyolite, are too porous and do not take a high gloss polish. Tiny stones are sometimes stuck on a wooden dow with wax to make them easier to manage. Rock tumblers are filled with grit and stones, then left to tumble for 21-30 days, slowing grinding away the stones until they are smooth. Extra large polished pieces can take a lot of time and effort, but they are unique and beautiful decorating rocks. Decorating with rocks is easy because rocks come in so many beautiful colors and patterns. Here at OakRocks we have polished stones as large as 300 pounds!

See some beautiful and unique Polished Stones at OakRocks.net!

And be sure and check out our Polished Stone Slabs too!

There are generally two ways of polishing stones for jewelry. Faceted -described as polished facets in a gemstone; and cabochons -described as a polished gemstones usually with a convex top and a flat bottom. Traditionally opaque and translucent stones are cut into cabochons and transparent stones are faceted.

What do people do with polished stones that aren't put into jewelry? Many people collect them for decorative purposes. Polished stones come in many different sizes and colors and can compliment any home. Many people place polished stones into lighted niches in their homes. Small tumbled stones look beautiful in vases or planters. Polished stones are also unique and thoughtful gemstone gifts.

Metaphysical healers use polished stones in their healing rituals. Many people believe that stones contain magical powers and they surround themselved with stones that they believe can inspire them. There are polished stones said to ease stress (Chrysocolla, Crazy Lace Agate, Shattuckite, Moss Agate), provide protection (All Jaspers, Tiger’s Eye, Malachite), or give one more energy (Druses, Magnetite & Pyrite, Maw Sit Sit, Cuprite). It is worth a try!

Here at OakRocks we do most of our own polishing, and we take great pride in our quality finish. I am certain you will find lots of polished stones you will want to give a home to!